Wet paintings from the Lowlands

Welcome,there are more than 600 paintings posted, to help you find what you are looking for I recommend you go to the labels on the right, click on label that interests you. If you are looking for a specific painting and can't find it, please do contact me...tip when you scroll to the bottom of the page, click on OLDER POSTS to see more. Thanks, Alberto.

I have painted this lighthouse on many occasions already, the only thing was, from a great distance! Inspired by a picture I saw on Facebook, I decided to get up close and have a good look at this enormous structure. It is new subject matter for me, and it feels fine to get on location and meet the challenges she presents to me. A pleasure to be working on one of the very few authentic corners left in Scheveningen.

Saturday, 10 February 2018

We have been experiencing fantastic sunny conditions these past few weeks. Mind you that comes with a price, and that means very low temperatures. Oh well as long as the wind is not too strong it is really quite nice to be on location. This is actually the 1st plein - air painting of 2018 for me, glad it was made on my favorite place.

Tuesday, 16 January 2018

You know I truly believe in the saying, "there is beauty all around, just a matter of seeing it". For me it is in the details that one must pay attention, in order to see that beauty. Let me explain, in regards to this art work. Starting with the rhythmic action of the rolling waves, bathed in all the shades that an emerald green light has to offer. Or look to that warm glow through the mist, on the horizon. Casting light on objects and buildings mysteriously coming and going, like one might recall, in an almost forgotten distant dream. Is it any wonder that while I was working on this painting on location the professional and amateur photographers alike were to be spotted, clicking away. capturing the moods of this soft and peaceful morning at Scheveningen Boulevard. Yes all this and more can be found, even on a gloomy winters day.

These are the last seaside paintings made in 2017. Very much a winters atmosphere, I rather enjoy painting in the mist. At least I don't have to deal with the wind, which can cause all sorts of problems. For those of you who don't know these works were made in the same area, the above two, same spot, different views.
What I like most of these type of scenarios is the mystical nature they bring forth. One could very well view these as thresholds to Infinity, not quite knowing what may lay beyond what is visible. Also worth mentioning is the meditative stillness represented in these works, leaving one with tranquil feelings, inducing calmness.

The original painting of this scene was made and sold in July 2015. By popular demand I decided to make this work available as a high quality reproduction. Up to now the popular XXL version, (25 x 170 cm, limited to a series of 39 copies) was only available. Since last month, (Oct 2017), I decided to have a smaller version printed, this series is limited to 50 copies. Each copy is numbered and signed. Sometimes I paint directly over the reproduction with oils, thus capturing the situation at hand. In this manner the reproduction is transformed into an original painting. Although the composition is true to the print, new elements are added, the atmosphere is totally different, colors are of course dependant on what's going on in the sky, as can be seen in the above painting. Below is a picture of the popular large and extra large version.

In this picture you see the reproduction in the larger versionsXXXL - 40 x 270 cm (NEW)
€ 595

This is the triple EXTRA LARGE version, suitable for extensive wall spaces. Because of the size, it comes complete with a museum quality aluminum support frame. I have only one in stock. It will be available on demand, in the future.

This is the popular version, which I have decided to limit to a series of 39*. The one you see in the above picture is number 17/39. Some of you have payed more for this version as the first editions were more costly for me, luckily I have found a new supplier that has enabled me to bring the cost down. For those of you who payed more I promise to make it up to you on your next purchase!

* By limiting the reproductions, numbering and signing them, even though it not an original, this automatically gives the work more value for the money you spend. Thus becoming an investment artefact.

Saturday, 21 October 2017

Sometimes as the saying goes, Less is more. In a busy world, were everything seems or is in fact fast paced, does the eye not take solace in such a view? The mind can fill in what the eye cannot see. The imagination can drift away, to places far beyond, soft clouds, three seagulls and shimmering on the horizon. Indeed, the mysteries of the Sea are many. Is it any wonder what brings you and me to meditate by the Sea.

Saturday, 30 September 2017

September skies can be very dramatic, challenging to paint, as at times the views of the cloud formations are so spectacular. The effect of the Sun light bursting through them, especially when the Sun is low, often produces beautiful scenery that words can't even describe. On this particular inspiring September morning I was fortunate enough to witness an unusual phenomenon, which lasted but a few moments, the reflection of a fully top lit low lying cumulus cloud on a rather calm Sea. Will, above the results of my effort.

Autumn skies for a painter are really a treat to look at, but oh what a challenge they are to paint. Swiftly they are ushered by the wind, in whatever direction it may be blowing. Thus my secret, work fast, get that brush loaded with the right pigments and apply it on the surface. Working quickly, even that 's not fast enough, but at least you will have a start, the rest is going to depend on how good a memory you have! I'm sure the old masters had a better technique, but to be quite frank I simply don't have the patience they had.

For me this scene, has a rather symbolic significance. The outstretched arms of the harbor, made of monumental cement blocks, with the two stripped lighthouses, at times, must be for the Seafarers a comforting site to see. Just like the outstretched arms of a Mother on her knees, to the eyes of her tender child in destress, flinging to attach herself to the warmth and solace of her makers bosom. So too these ships coming in from hostile incalculable waters, must indeed find comfort on the still waters of the inner harbor.

Monday, 18 September 2017

With such a display of those puffy cumulus clouds mixed with a stratocumulus making an appearance here and there, it was no wonder I choose this format to paint on, thus not horizontal, but vertical. Low horizon, putting the focus on what's going taking place in the air. We have been experiencing strong wind forces on the coast, as you can see by the build up of sand next to the dunes. That object you see on the sand next to that isolated dark pole, slightly right of center, is a Strandbeest, in progress by Theo Janssen. Below a close up, have a look.

Tuesday, 5 September 2017

What a pleasure it is for me to be on location on such days as this! The Sun shines, brightly yet gently, as the morning is in full swing, yet the Sun is at a distance comfortable for our sensitive skin. People, the crowds, are still at a tolerable level. From this point Scheveningen can be digested and appreciated, as the skyline doesn't dominate the overall scenery. It is no wonder hundreds if not thousands of Nederlanders daily make a walk to Wassenaarseslag, on such days, and who could blame them really!

Wednesday, 23 August 2017

I think today is the start of the so called Indian Summer, for us here in The Lowlands. It certainly felt that way with temperatures reaching almost 30 degrees, and hardly any wind to speak of. A morning situation at the Quiet beach, things just getting started, that's when il pittore, is at his best. The HKZV clubhouse about to open, the flags just raised. Theo already working on one of his latest Strandbeesten, close by De Fuut, (I always like to honor a fellow artist). Man Life could be fantastic here in Holland.... Days like this, Life is fantastic, here in Holland!

For the more adventurous, a very windy/mild storm situation, depicted in this scenery. The effects of light, due to the presence of those lovely fluffy clouds, racing by, in my opinion, make this an interesting view. A sailor with his Cat, getting ready to tackle the elements, kite surfers and Nature lovers alike, enjoying this afternoon, on the not so Quiet Beach here at Zuiderstrand, DH.

Monday, 31 July 2017

A painting made on a very windy beach, one fine afternoon in June. Waves too dangerous for the
inexperienced swimmer, so this chap dipped in for a few moments, but then wisely decided to head back on solid ground.....

I can never be grateful enough for the lovely compositions one is afforded with the colorful coloration of these objects on the beach here in The Hague. Inspiration for this painting was Theo Janssen working on his latest "Strandbeesten"....The wind was also helping me make this an interesting work by creating all those interesting cloud formations.

A lazy day at the beach
oil on canvas - 30 x 150 cm
painted on location Sat. 22 July 2017SOLD

I rather like these days when the Sun is not so strong that it makes everything blue and bright at the Sea. Grey tints of color take on an importance, that to a painter can be very tasteful to the palette used on the canvas. Lots to see on these large panoramic paintings, however on line very little is shown, thus a close up of the focal point in this work.

Was fine to be back in Delft earlier this season. Years ago I was regularly going here to paint and sketch in this picturesque small city. Known to many, as the birthplace of one of Hollands greatest painters, the master Johannes Vermeer. The city centre has remained pretty much the same as it was when originally built, centuries ago. A favourite destination for tourists, scholars and artists alike.

View of the City Hall during market

oil on wooden panel - 13 x 18 cm

painted on location - Thurs 13 July 2017

SOLD

On a more recent visit, I was inspired to paint this market scene, with the typical Dutch city hall construction as a setting. Always that renowned Dutch sky lingering around, with its clouds saying, "go ahead paint us if you can, but you better be fast, because we are moving on down, carrying loads of water we need to get rid of "

Wednesday, 12 July 2017

this is the view one can see, on the top of the steps going down to the beach cafe/restaurant De Kwartel. It is late in the afternoon, the warmth of the Sun, not only feels good, it illuminates all in a golden tint. A favorite time for us outdoor painters to be active.

The start of a busy beach day, I like to get out as early as possible, thus before the Sun is at its warmest, I am already packing up and usually, when all goes well, leaving with a completed painting. I said before and I'll say it again, Man am I lucky to have this beach just a few short city blocks away.

Tuesday, 11 July 2017

Not normal high temperature on this day, kids just loving being at the beach, as the waves were mild and plenty of safe water to play on. The two girls in the foreground, getting a taste of surfing with a toy surf board, that one has to pull, while the other takes a ride.

Two days later and hey what happened to the blistering warm temperatures?.... Will just look at the sky of the above two paintings....wind blasted that warmth straight across Holland, over Germany and Switzerland, and I swear, must have made it clear over the Alps all the way to steaming hot Sicily, SO HARD WAS THE WIND BLOWING THAT DAY! Oh well, great subject matter to paint, those infamous Dutch clouds have made history repeatedly with the Masters of the Golden Age and even more recently right up to the 21century.

Saturday, 1 July 2017

Just a lovely day here at Zuiderstrand, The Hague. The warm light of the late afternoon brings life to this scene...kite surfers making the most of the windy situation. Decided to use a portrait size canvas, thus showing the action on the ground and in the air!

Three sailboats and the skipper Little John

oil on canvas - 24 x 30 cm

painted on location - Tues 13 June 2017

SOLD

A great day for sailing as kliene Jantje is about to discover. Mom is nearby sitting on the warm sand, keeping a close watch on the situation.

Arriving on the scene, sometimes it is difficult making a final decision on what will get painted. After a drink of coffee, I take into consideration the various options, then a choice is made and the painting gets started. I guess the wave action got me going on the work above.

Thursday, 15 June 2017

Imagine being on that sailboat and waking up to this situation. Everything is still, very gentle movement of the water, hardly noticeable, except for the distant cries of a few seagulls now and then, not a sound to be heard. In a country like Holland this situation is almost nowhere to be found., and lucky are the few that can experience it. Finding myself on the Island Vlieland, i was witness to this scene, and believe you me didn't waste any time in getting this situation on canvas. On the horizon barely visible is the island Texel. I was just in time to get these gentle nuances of colour recorded, an hour later the sky broke open, creating a whole different scenario. Below a small work made as a study for this painting.

Monday, 12 June 2017

It's time to pack up and head home, but little Jaap is only interested in taking another dip in the fresh cool water of the North Sea, his mother doesn't agree and hastily chases him. Finding myself on location, on South Beach, The Hague, at the beginning of the famous golden hour, (the time when the Sun is low enough to cast a warm light, ideal for painting), I was witness to this situation. Luckily I was almost finished this painting, just it needed something extra, thus as quick as possible I painted the Mom chasing her boy, and am glad I did it quickly, as it seems to have captured the situation perfectly.

Thursday, 8 June 2017

Kindren op strand 3
oil on canvas - 24 x 30 cm
painted on location - Thurs. 1 June 2017€275
First time for il pittore on the small island Vlieland, really loved it their! I'm no stranger to small islands, have spent many warm days, working and painting on the tiny island Panarea, off the coast of Sicily, a real jewel of the Mediterranean Sea. But Vlieland is on the North Sea, and to experience it with extreme warm weather is truly a blessing! I made a total of 5 paintings, next posting will show the other 2. This theme of children at the beach is attractive to me at this time, hope you are not getting bored with these postings. Your feedback is always welcome!

Here you have a few other paintings I made at the Art Festival Ezels en Kwasten in Wijk Aan Zee, NH. It was probably the 1st real hot summer like day we have had here in Holland. The beach's were full of Moms with their kids. I had just finished 2 large panoramic format canvases thus decided it was time for a few close ups of beach activity. With that thought in mind, that is how these works came to life. Didn't get on location tell about mid afternoon, however worked right up until dusk, as is evident on the third painting. Had fun composing this series as I had a surplus of models to work from, and the best part of that is, I didn't have to pay them!

Monday, 15 May 2017

Finding myself in Wijk Aan Zee, NH, for the opening of the International Art Festival, Ezels en Kwasten, instead of listening to the opening speeches, after a lousy dinner, I decided to find a motif to paint, get the ball rolling, you know what I mean. It was the evening of a rainy overcast day. Thus I didn't have much hope in finding a subject to paint. That is until the sky started to put on this spectacular display of light and color, as the dark clouds were overtaken by the intense light of the Sun, making its downward descent at dusk. Whilst painting, those crepuscular rays suddenly appeared, causing the horizon to light up. What to do, leave them out or add them in? Well the choice I made is obvious, and listening to the reactions of my posting on Facebook of this work, it was the right thing to do. The last accent, was the addition of the seagulls. shown as if they are dancing to the rhythms of the beat in our hearts.

Friday, 21 April 2017

I was inspired to make this painting, because for me this is an inviting scene for anyone who is longing to be at the beach here on the coast of Holland. I'm beginning to understand why so many German tourists are visiting Kijkduin. I was inspired by the white color of the Beach Cafe with hints of color here and there, and the shadow being cast by the afternoon Sun. And of course the wave action was very picturesque that day. Still rather cold, with much wind, however, if one dresses warmly, it is fine.

The English title to these small studies in oils, is inspired from a 1965 film called, Baby the Rain Must Fall, starring Steve McQueen and Lee Remick (a great film btw). Even though these works were made sometime ago, it could very well be depicting the situation we have on hand at the beach in these days. I made these as fore studies for a larger commission painting from last year. They are ready to hang or even better, you might want to display them on your desk or favorite shelf top.

Subscribe to my weekly newsletter

Contact

If you wish, contact me directly at +31624507473. My studio is in The Hague, you are welcome to visit! My email is alberto.ilpittore@gmail.com. I can often be found painting en plein-air, on the South beach, The Hague.

Any questions? (prices, delivery options, custom work!)

Name

Email
*

Message
*

WORKS STILL AVAILABLE FOR SALE

For your convenience, you may clickhere for a filtered list of Works that are not yet sold.